Mobo Awards founder Kanya King dies after cancer battle at 57

Mobo Awards founder Kanya King has been remembered as a “visionary” who “changed the face of culture and music”, following her death at the age of 57. King at the 2024 Mobo Awards in Sheffield | BBC King worked tirelessly to champion black musicians’ contribution to British culture and funded the first Music of Black Origin awards in 1996 out of her own pocket. BBC on Friday reported that she died on Wednesday after “a courageous and characteristically determined battle with colon cancer”, the Mobo Organisation said in a statement. Tributes have been paid by stars including TV host and Mis-Teeq singer Alesha Dixon, who called King an “incredible woman”, adding: “You helped so many people, your impact is immeasurable!” Stormzy posted heart and dove emojis, while Sir Idris Elba said she was gone “too soon”. The Luther actor posted: “You inspired me. Your dedication is unmatched. I will miss you @kanyakingcbe; we will all miss you.” JLS star Oritsé Williams said she was “a pioneer” who had “created a powerful platform that championed cultures, communities and talent that were often unseen and underrepresented, despite our cultural influence being felt across the world”. Williams added: “You didn’t just create opportunities; you created belief—belief in our culture, our creativity and our potential. “You are an icon, a true visionary. I trust and believe that your impact will be felt for generations to come.” London Mayor Sadiq Khan echoed his sentiments, calling King “a true pioneer” who “changed the face of culture and music”. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added: “She was a real pioneer who changed British music for the better through the MOBO Awards.” King’s family said they were “devastated” by her death. “She faced every moment of her illness as she faced every moment of her life: with courage, with faith, with humour, and with an absolute refusal to be diminished,” they said. Through the Mobos, she gave “an entire generation of black British artists the right to be seen, to be celebrated, and to be heard on their own terms”, they added. “Kanya leaves behind 30 years of music, of joy, of resistance, of proof—proof that one woman, with vision, nerve, and love, can move an entire culture. “We are broken. We are grateful. We are so profoundly, endlessly proud to have been her family. “Kanya King CBE. Gone too soon. Never, ever forgotten.” Defied expectations Over three decades, the Mobos have become globally renowned for their recognition of black talent—platforming upcoming stars and pushing to break industry boundaries. King defied expectations as a teena